It All Started With My Son
I didn't grow up playing soccer. I grew up wrestling and playing baseball — soccer wasn't even a sport for boys at my high school. Everything I've learned about this game started because of my son, and I keep learning because of both of my kids.
When my son was around six years old I started coaching and wanted to learn more. I began messaging people on Facebook trying to get answers — nobody replied. That's when it hit me: why not give people a platform to talk about youth soccer? Hand them the microphone nobody else was handing them.
The first episode dropped on December 8th, 2022 — my daughter's birthday. Four years in, the podcast has grown from a North Texas conversation into something heard around the world. I've made connections, built friendships, and learned more about this beautiful game than I ever imagined.
"This started because I wanted to better understand the beautiful game of soccer — for my son, for my family. At the end of the day, that's still what it's all about."
— Ian Babcock, Host · Chat By The Pitch
Built For The Whole Team
Navigating travel teams, tryouts, tournament weekends, and raising a young athlete.
Young athletes learning what it takes to develop on and off the field.
Tactics, culture, communication, and leadership — all covered.
Topics From The Pitch
Tryouts, clubs, costs, and what to look for — from North Texas and beyond.
Skills, mindset, and playing the long game.
How parents can support — and when to step back.
Building culture, communication, and winning environments.